I'm not sure why everyone keeps saying/implying that not signing Edwin and Jose automatically means the team doesn't want to compete.
Umm no. If the front office thinks the money is better spent on younger guys that provide SOME defensive value, then I want them to do that. Everyone talks about losing "fans" if we don't sign Edwin/Jose, but do you know what ACTUALLY loses fans? A s***** old team that can't compete.
Edwin and Jose are getting old, and their production could very easily drop off a cliff. I would hope Shatkins' decision hasn't been swayed by playoff performances.
The bottom line is this: build a competitive team, and the fans will continue to show up. You don't sign players just for fan service, because the fans will abandon the team quick if those player fail to perform and the team turns to s***.
My only issue would be if the front office decreases payroll next year. Letting Edwin/Jose walk doesn't necessarily mean payroll will decrease. People should stop equating the two.